Lazy days sinking your toes in the soft sand at a beach near Pittsburgh. It just doesn’t get any better than summer in and around Pittsburgh, does it? When you need one of those leisurely beach days, soak up the sun on this sandy beach that leads into the cool water of Raccoon Lake. Spend the whole day by and in the water, or carve out some time to explore the sprawling state park.
Less than half an hour from downtown Pittsburgh, Raccoon Creek State Park in Hookstown is the perfect summer destination, especially if you love the beach.
Facebook/Raccoon Creek State Park
Claim your spot on a clear patch of the 500-foot sandy beach, making it easy to sink your toes into the soft sand. You can also grab a spot on the grassy area behind the sand.
Flickr/sk
An ADA-accessible beach that leads to the 100-acre Raccoon Lake, the beach and the lake are not guarded by lifeguards. Take precautions when in the water.
Facebook/Raccoon Creek State Park
Bring a picnic along, so you can enjoy a delicious meal. (You can eat right at your spot in the sand or find a shaded picnic table to spread out.)
Facebook/Raccoon Creek State Park
No worries if you don’t feel like packing a picnic. The beach also features a concession stand, where you can grab a delicious bite to eat.
Facebook/Raccoon Creek State Park
When you need to freshen up or to change, just head over to the bathhouse.
Trip Advisor/DVC Member
The beach at Raccoon Lake is open annually from the end of May through the middle of September. Hours are 8 a.m. to sunset each day.
Facebook/Raccoon Creek State Park
Once you’ve had your fill at the beach (if that’s even possible), explore some of the rest of the park. Raccoon Creek State Park boasts a network of hiking trails and is perfect for a bit of wildlife watching.
Flickr/sk
You can also spend the night camping out at the park. Choose from an RV spot, a tent, or a rustic cabin.
Trip Advisor/Andrew B.
Learn more about Raccoon Creek State Park at its official website. Or, go here for Facebook.
Facebook/Raccoon Creek State Park
What’s your favorite beach near Pittsburgh? Let us know in the comments! Up for a road trip? How about a road trip to the best beaches near Pittsburgh? It’s the perfect summer adventure.
Facebook/Raccoon Creek State Park
Flickr/sk
Trip Advisor/DVC Member
Trip Advisor/Andrew B.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
Address: Raccoon Creek State Park, 3000 PA-18, Hookstown, PA 15050, USA
